7 Tips for Using Electric Toothbrushes

Brushing with an electric toothbrush is an awesome way to step up your oral hygiene routine and get cleaner teeth. Electric toothbrushes use frequencies of vibrations per minute (VPM) to reduce plaque and bacteria, with many models providing irrigation and gum massage. Studies show that when compared to manual toothbrushes, electric versions reduce gingivitis 11 percent more and dental plaque 21 percent more after three months of use. Yet many users suffer from increased tooth and gum sensitivity and lackluster results. The good news is, this is most likely caused by improper use and is an easy fix.

Here are seven tips for using electric toothbrushes properly.

1. Press Lightly
Many users assume that the harder you press with an electric toothbrush, the better you clean. This is not the case! Pressing too hard is actually less effective because the toothbrush bristles won’t move across your teeth’s surfaces freely. It also causes greater sensitivity and increases the risk of gum recession and damage. Guide the brush but let the bristles do their job.

2. Power Up
Don’t use your electric toothbrush when the charge is low—make sure it is always fully powered up before each use. If the battery is low, you may press too hard when brushing your teeth to overcompensate for the slow speed caused by dying power.

3. Avoid Abrasive Toothpastes 
Many toothpastes are packed with harsh ingredients such as silicates, pumice, charcoal and others that can cause damage, especially when paired with an electric toothbrush. SALIVEA Extra Gentle, Low Foaming Toothpaste is an excellent choice since it gently cleans and protects using ingredients like natural salivary enzymes with maximum anticavity fluoride protection.

4. Select the Right Toothbrush
Electric toothbrushes are not all created equal. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends using soft bristles so that you don’t damage your gums or apply too much pressure. Find one that suits you—it should fit comfortably in your hands and the head should fit in your mouth easily.  

5. One Tooth at a Time
Clean each tooth individually by holding the moving brush over each tooth surface for approximately two seconds. No need to move it back forth like you would with a regular toothbrush.

6. Go Two Minutes
The ADA recommends brushing your teeth for a full two minutes. Use a timer if your electric toothbrush doesn’t have one—and don’t bow out early.

7. Replace the Brush Head Regularly
Replace your toothbrush head every three months or after an illness unless the manufacturer’s instructions indicate otherwise. Overuse can cause bristles to break or fray, making them essentially useless. Fortunately, many brushes are color coded so that you can tell when it’s time to replace them.

Try the tips above in conjunction with SALIVEA Extra Gentle, Low Foaming Toothpaste to boost your sparkle while minimizing sensitivity.